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christmas fitness gift

Apera Yoga Tote Review

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carlton dance

Guess who just got the new Apera Yoga Tote!!!!???

I got my first Apera Bag in 2014 and I literally use this bag EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. Going to the gym, training clients, everyday errands – this bag is on my side. I love my original Fuchsia Apera Performance Duffel (read my blog post on it here) and when I was asked to review the new and improved Apera line of bags I jumped at the chance. I couldn’t decide which one of the sweet bags I wanted and since I already had one Apera bag in the pink family, I asked them to surprise me with any bag in the graphite color. 3 days later, Mr. Fed Ex man delivered me the Apera Yoga Tote.

06fb7ea19ae1ee0f53f8ecb852b30a6bAnd yes, I did that.

The first thing I noticed was the really cool pattern and color of the yoga tote. Here is a close up:

CYMERA_20151103_104025 Being a new design, I was so excited to see that they kept some of the great features that the original bags had:

  • Ventilated side pocket for shoes
  • Sanitize infused anti-microbial protection to ward off odor
  • Tons of interior pockets to keep your stuff organized
  • A small, anti-microbial interior bag to keep your wet and dry clothes separated
  • Water proof bottom
  • BONUS!!! With every 3 bags purchased, one is donated to a Special Olympics Athlete

They added a few new features that really take the bag to the next level of awesome:

  • Exterior Water Bottle Pocket
  • 2 extra carry handles as well as a shoulder strap
  • 3 extra exterior pockets
  • A pass through to carry your foam roller or yoga mat
  • A padded pocket of electronics

Apera Specs

 Apera 2

This bag is so roomy, that I wanted to show you just what I carry in my bag

CYMERA_20151104_151733

These are the necessities that I need for work: a foam roller, shoes, water bottle, towel, ipod, speakers, resistance bands, shower/cosmetic bag, tablet, wipes, perfect pushups, band, wallet and keys.

CYMERA_20151104_152601

It all fit nicely in the tote with room to spare for a change of clothes. And I still had the exterior pockets empty!

If you are looking for a new gym bag, diaper bag (yep – it would be great for that too), carry all for every day or just a fun accessory, you will not be disappointed with the Apera Yoga Tote. And if the Yoga Tote isn’t what you are looking for, Apera has a variety of other bags in all shapes, sizes and colors that are sure to fit your needs. Check out their all new website and get 20% off your order. Go get your Apera Bag today and find out “where you can do from here”.

 

My FAVORITE FITmas Gifts for 2014 – Day 5

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My Pick for Day 5 is WSI HEATR GEAR! HEATR Gear is THE warmest base layer clothing on the market. And I can attest to that. I hate, hate, hate the cold. I refuse to do much outside in the winter because I always freeze. Now that I have the full HEARTR GEAR line of socks, hooded long sleeve shirt and leggings I can actually enjoy myself out in the cold elements.  The HEATR Gear uses your own body heat to generate heat that stays INSIDE the clothing and doesn’t escape through the fabric. And if you happen to get sweaty, the fabric will wick away the sweat to the OUTSIDE of the clothing so you stay dry.

But don’t think that WSI only manufactures cold weather clothing. They also have a great line of wicking clothing for warm weather. So no matter what the season, you can sport WSI clothing. This Holiday Season, support a local business that takes pride in the fact that their quality clothing is made in AMERICA and created with care.

My FAVORITE FITmas Gifts for 2014 – Day 4

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My Favorite FITmas Gift for Day 4 is the PRO COMPRESSION sock line! When you think compression socks, what do you think of – hospital socks, am I right? Well the purpose of those ugly, one-size-fits NO ONE socks is to help the blood circulate in your legs and maintain blood flow. So, if those socks do all of that, why wouldn’t you wear them when you are working out? Well, I wouldn’t wear the ones I got while I was in the hospital during my workout, but I would wear a pair from PRO COMPRESSION. They are form fitting, comfortable and fashionable and they are functional. Pro Compression offers a full line of full length, mid length and low cut socks as well as calf and arm sleeves. You can also choose from socks that will keep your feet warm in the winter or cool and dry in the summer. PRO COMPRESSION also sells compression leggings!
I was never a fan of compression socks. As a girl, yes I can be a little girlie, I thought they looked silly. I would see runners wearing tall socks and shorts and think, “Wouldn’t it just make more sense to wear pants?” Then I tried a pair. PRO COMPRESSION sent me a pair of pink marathon knee high socks to try. They kind of had me backed into a corner when they sent me pink socks, I mean, they were cute so I had to try them right? So I did. I was shocked how great my legs felt during my runs, so I decided to try them out when I ran a half marathon. Normally, after a long run, my legs would cramp up a lot no matter how hydrated I was, but after the half my legs never cramped once. I WAS A BELIEVER!!!! Now I have close to 10 pairs and I refuse to run long runs without them.

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Prices range from $17 – $60

If you are looking for a great gift for a runner, gym rat, someone who has circulation issues or just a sock lover, then the PRO COMPRESSION socks are a great gift choice.

My FAVORITE FITmas Gifts for 2014 – Day 3

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APERA BAGMy Favorite FITmas Gift of 2014 pick for day 3 is ANY of the APERA BAGS. I got my Apera bag back in January (see my review here) and I use this bag every day.

My Apera Performance Duffel
My Apera Performance Duffel in Fuscia
All of my daily necessities that I carry in my bag
All of my daily necessities that I carry in my bag
And it ALL fits into the bag!
And it ALL fits into the bag!

Apera Bags are the ultimate gift for anyone who carries everything and anything. These bags are roomy and they can keep all of your stuff organized. With compartments and pockets galore, you will never be searching your bag to find what you need. And what really sets these bags apart from the ordinary “gym bag” is the “non-funk-factor”. You know that sweaty smell that radiates every time you open your gym bag, you know what I’m talking about . THE FUNK of a gym bag – ish. Well, you don’t have to worry about being the stinky kid in the gym when you carry Apera Bags. Each bag is  designed to be healthier – with built-in antimicrobial product protection to inhibit the growth of bacterial odors, vented compartments, separation of your wet, sweaty gear from your dry stuff, and venting air to keep your bag dry and suppress odor. TA-DA!

Any of the Apera Bags would be a great gift for anyone: gym rat, student, traveler, new mom (yep a client of mine uses it as a diaper bag) or just for someone who like to carry everything plus the kitchen sink, cause that will fit in the bag too!

Unfortunately the Performance Duffel is on back order, BUT all of the other fabulous bags are 20% off right now and Apera is also offering FREE SHIPPING!!!

 

 

My FAVORITE FITmas Gifts for 2014 – Day 2

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6 pack

Another one of my favorite FITmas Gifts for 2014 is the 6 Pack Bag. This is the MUST have gift for anyone who is trying to stay on track with healthy eating. With BPA-free containers, ice packs that keep food cold, insulated pockets that keep food warm and extra storage for drinks, vitamins or utensils, these bags have it all.

I personally have 2 of the 6 Pack Bags.

The Expert Innovator: $69.99 – $99.99

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And the Expert Plyo Sling: $129.99

Expert Plyo Sling collage

I use the Innovator for days when I need all of my meals, drinks and snacks for the day and the Plyo sling for the days when I don’t want to be the crazy lady carrying the chicken and broccoli around in my purse. No matter which 6 Pack Cooler or Tote you choose, know that you will have meals that will last and quality bag that will last even longer!

My FAVORITE FITmas Gifts for 2014 – Day 1

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One of my favorite FITmas gifts of 2014 is the GYMBOSS Interval Timer. This timer has changed my workouts and my clients workouts for the better. I no longer have to stare down the clock waiting for my next interval to start or end. Now I can just set my timer, clip it to my shirt and wait for the beep. It allows me to put 100% of my focus on the workout. Because the GYMBOSS is so small I can’t even tell that I am wearing it. And, unlike a cell phone, the clip keeps my hands free, I don’t have to worry about it falling off the equipment and I don’t have to set it down on the dirty gym floor. The GYMBOSS is less than $20, offers a HUGE selection of colors and takes the “timing” out of your workout – what more could you ask for? The GYMBOSS is THE perfect gift for any fitness finatic on your list this year.

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Merry Fitmas: Even More Fitness Gifts

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This year I had SO many great health and fitness items that I added to my life, I just had to add on to the Top 12 Fitness Gifts for 2013 and include a few more!!! I have used each and every one of these items and I highly recommend them for you or the health and fitness finatic in your life!

Aprea Performance Duffel

$124.00
$124.00

The Apera Performance Duffel was designed to carry EVERYTHING that you and still keep you organized and looking stylish! Every Apera bag includes antimicrobial product protection inside and outside, ventilated compartments, a water resistant base and wipeable linings keep your bag clean, dry and healthy. No more stinky gym bag!!! Use Coupon code holiday2013 when checking out and receive free shipping and 20% off any bag.

 

 

Sweaty Bands

$12.00-$15.00
$12.00-$15.00

I fell in LOVE with these headbands the first time I ever used them. I can’t stand having hair in my face when I am working out and Sweaty Bands really do their job. Using a non slip grip, they stay put through your hardest workouts and no matter how much you sweat or hard the wind blows. And with over 900 patterns, you will have on  trouble fining one you love. And if you can’t, you have the option of creating your own custom Sweaty Band.

 

 

Ninja Master Prep Blender

$49.99
$49.99

Vitamix – Shimitamix! This blender could slice, dice and puree a concrete block! The Ninja Master Prep Blender is perfect for making smoothies and protein shakes. Toss in ice cubes, nuts, fruits, veggies, whatever and it will come out smooth as silk! A little spendy but totally worth it. It has become a staple in my kitchen!

 

 

Mane Message

$7.00
$7.00

The hair tie that actually doubles as a super cute bracelet. I wear a few at a time, one in my hair and a one or ten on my wrist. I am always losing the plain black hair ties, which is ok. They are constantly breaking, stretching out and breaking my hair. Mane Message hair ties stay put without breaking my hair and because they are brightly colored, I never lose them. Mane Message hair ties come in a ton of colors, variety packs and gift packs. But online and used coupon code HOLLY and get 20% off and a free gift.

The Top 10 FITmas Gifts in 2011

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Looking for that perfect gift for the fitness fanatic in your life? Look no further. Here are my recommendations for the best fitness gift of the 2011. I use these ALL of these products and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a great gift for a loved one or yourself.

TRX SUSPENSION TRAINER

$199.95 If you’re looking for the ULTIMATE gift to give someone, this would be it. The TRX system is great for the traveling fitness freak, an outdoor enthusiast or the average Joe who doesn’t have much space to work out. Hook the TRX up to a tree, pole or sturdy beam in your house and your set for a great workout using just your body weight. Great for all fitness levels. Use code TRXGIVE when checking out and get FREE SHIPPING and 20% off.

BOSU TRAINER

$49.95-$109 Do you BOSU? You should. The BOSU is an amazing functional tool to help improve your balance, strength, agility and speed. Can be used flat side up or flat side down. The BOSU takes exercises like lunges, pushups and planks to a whole other level.

 

 

GYMBOSS

$19.99 The Gymboss interval timer will give your workout the discipline and structure necessary to take your workout to the next level. This easy to use timer will allow you to stay on track during your workouts by eliminating the pesky issue of checking the time during your intervals. Just set it, forget it put all of your focus on the workout to get the best results possible!

 

 

2 LB. WEIGHTED GLOVES WITH REMOVABLE WEIGHTS

$17.99 These adjustable gloves can be used for strength training, boxercise, walking. Removable 1 lb weight packets allow the gloves to go from 0-2 lbs. I love these gloves because there have been so many times when I am in between weights and these allow me to make small weight increases.

10 LB MAX-VEST

$44.99 I’m a sucker for the Cathe products and this vest is awesome. It adds just enough weight to fry my legs during my plyo workouts. I love doing walking lunges when wearing this vest.

 

THE PERFECT PUSHUP

$39.95 Don’t knock it until you try it! When a client of mine suggested I add it into my chest routine, I laughed at him. I am not one to try “infomercial” products because they are usually cheesy and junk. But I tried it and it took my pushup to a whole new level – it added depth and rotation into a normal pushup while keeping me in perfect form with less strain on my wrists.

 

 

THE ULTIMATE WORKOUT LOG

$12.95 This 24 week workout journal allows you to log your cardio and strength workouts. Every page has a motivational saying and gives you fitness information and facts that can help you reach your personal goals.

 

 

 

FITBOOK JOURNAL

$22.95 A personalized, flexible, and functional fitness/nutrition journal that offers a unique 12-week system to plan for success, track your progress, and reach your goals. At just 5.5″, the fitbook is portable – but durable enough to endure being toted around. The fitbook is small in size, but packs a punch in utility with durable plastic coil, an elastic strap to mark your place, a handy slot in the back to stash your gym card, and includes a pint-size pen.

 

FITNESS TO GO GEAR

$20-$40 Look cute and fit while sporting the Fitness To Go Apparel. Jackets, short sleeve sweat wicking tees and tank tops in lots of fun colors. Also, stay hydrated while drinking out of your Fitness To Go water bottle.

 

 

 

FITNESS TO GO GIFT CERTIFICATES

$10-UNLIMITED Give the gift of health this year. Purchase Gift Certificates that can be used for any Fitness To Go Service. Classes, Training, Equipment Orientation, Custom/Private Bootcamps, Program Design – you name it, Fitness To Go can help you get in the best shape of your life in 2012!

Recommended Christmas Gifts

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Looking for that perfect gift for the fitness fanatic in your life? Look not further. Here are my recommendations for the best fitness gift of the year. I use these products and I highly recommend them to anyone looking for a great gift.

KOR ONE HYDRATION VESSEL

$29.95

This water bottle is BPA Free, has an easy-to-carry handle and is dishwasher safe.  This reusable bottle does not retain  any scents or tastes. When you purchase this hydration vessel, you also help save the planet. Comes in pink, blue, green and orange.

THE ULTIMATE WORKOUT LOG

$12.95

This 24 week workout journal allows you to log your cardio and strength workouts. Every page has a motivational saying and gives you fitness information and facts that can help you reach your personal goals.

Gift Certificate to Collage Video

Collage Video is an online fitness dvd store that helps you pick the workout dvd that is right for you. You can view clips of videos and read reviews of each video written by users and ACE certified personal trainers. Best part – the videos are 100% guaranteed and can be returned – no questions asked.

2 LB. WEIGHTED GLOVES WITH REMOVABLE WEIGHTS BY CATHE

$17.99

These adjustable gloves can be used for strength training, boxercise, walking. Removable 1 lb weight packets allow the gloves to go from 0-2 lbs. I love these gloves because there have been so many times when I am in between weights and these allow me to make small weight increases.

10 LB. MaX-Vest

$44.99

I’m a sucker for the Cathe products and this vest is awesome. Adds just enough weight to fry my legs during my plyo workouts. I love doing walking lunges when wearing this vest.

TRX Suspension Trainer

$189.95

If you’re looking for the ULTIMATE gift to give someone, this would be it. The TRX system is great for the traveling fitness freak, an outdoor enthusiast or the average Joe who doesn’t have much space to work out. Hook the TRX up to a tree, pole or sturdy beam in your house and your set for a great workout using just your body weight. Great for all fitness levels.

BOSU® Home Trainer

$99.95

Do you BOSU? You should. The BOSU is an amazing functional tool to help improve your balance, strength, agility and speed. Can be used flat side up or flat side down. The BOSU takes exercises like lunges, pushups and planks to a whole other level.

Fitness To Go Apparel

$19-32.00

Look cute and fit while sporting the Fitness To Go Apparel. Long sleeve hoodies, short sleeve sweat wicking tees and tank tops in lots of fun colors.

THE BEST FOR LAST IS…….

Personal Training Session With Fitness To Go

$30-65.oo per session.

Personal training sessions with yours truly is the BEST gift of the season. Get fit for your  wedding, vacation or for life.  You are an individual…workout like one. Sessions and training fit for your individual goals. Challenging, fun and effective.